The Best Use of Music in WDW Attractions

Disney has a wonderful, vast music catalog and history. From the “Frozen” phenomena to “Steamboat Willie’s” whistling, it has been a huge part of the Disney experience. The parks have incorporated music seamlessly into the surroundi

ngs and attractions that enhance our experience. Today, I will focus on what to me are the best uses of music in WDW attractions.

5. Mickey’s Philharmagic at Magic Kingdom – Mickey’s Philharmagic works a stream of classic Disney songs into the 3D misadventures of Donald Duck. If you are a fan of the grand Disney musicals of the 80s and 90s, then you will especially love this attraction and it’s music selection.

4. The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios – The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster takes you into a recording studio with rock legends Aerosmith then on a sweeping freeway ride to the concert. I am not particularly an Aerosmith fan. Their best offerings are from the 1970s. It works here, though, and most of the songs are from their early works. The songs change, which is good, but waiting to “merge onto the freeway” and throughout the entire ride, the music keeps the adrenaline rushing.

3 It’s a Small World at Magic Kingdom – Just reading the name of this ride has probably stuck this tune in your head for the rest of the day. Without the song, the attraction would be kind’ve creepy. With it though, it is a classic.

2. Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom – I love the drops and I love the animatronics; but, the music is the backbone of this attraction. It leads us along, telling us the legends of Brer Rabbit and keeping us smiling. From “How Do You Do?” through “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah,” the music is fun and upbeat. Until last week, I had not seen “Song of the South” since I was a child. Most younger people have never seen it and maybe never will. To me, this novelty makes it even a little more special.

1. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Hollywood Studios – Christmas is our favorite time at WDW and the Osborne Light Show is a big part of it. Millions of Christmas lights decorate the Streets of America with “snow” gently falling, Christmas music playing, and guests wandering through the streets to admire the show. It is absolutely beautiful. Every so often, the lights are synchronized to the music, with Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “Christmas Eve Sarajevo” being my favorite. About every half hour, “Feliz Navidad” gets played and everyone rushes to the center of the street for a cast member lead line dance. Roly and I have minimal rhythm, but we won’t miss it. If you get the chance, I wholeheartedly recommend WDW in the Christmas season and Osborne Dancing Lights are not to missed. What can be better? Christmas music, warm weather, snow, beautiful lights, and hidden Mickeys. Look for a teenage boy likely wearing a Mister Toad shirt with his mustachioed father wearing a Mickey hat dancing with cast members.

I love listening to Disney music! The music at the parks, even the background music, really makes it a special experience. And you’re totally right, It’s A Small World would be quite creepy without the wonderful music! Haha!